Following on from our blog on the language learning trends in UK schools, this week we focus on…

The Future of Foreign Language Learning at UK Universities

The landscape of foreign language learning at UK universities is undergoing significant changes, with a worrying decline in the number of students opting for modern language degrees. Over the past 15 years, the number of students studying modern languages has more than halved, leading to the closure of 10 university language departments and the downsizing of nine others.

According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), the number of first-year students choosing a modern language degree has dropped by 16% since 2007. This decline is particularly pronounced in languages such as German, French, Italian, African, and South Asian languages. Undergraduate language numbers have decreased from 6,010 in 2011 to 3,825 in 2021.

In stark contrast, science subjects have seen a rise of almost 50% across the board. This shift in student preferences can be attributed to several factors. One significant reason is the perception that achieving high grades in languages at both GCSE and A-level is challenging. Students often compare themselves to native speakers and feel they cannot reach that level of proficiency.

The impact of Brexit and anti-European sentiments in the media have also played a role in this decline. As a result, language studies are now predominantly concentrated in Russell Group universities, which are known for their high academic standards and research output.

However, there is a silver lining. The study of languages combined with other subjects is on the rise. Joint Honours degrees, particularly in Management and Business Schools, are increasingly incorporating language studies. This trend is promising as it aligns language learning with business needs, potentially boosting the economy in a post-Brexit Britain.

Modern language learning will be critical moving forward. The ability to communicate in multiple languages is not only a valuable skill in the global job market but also fosters cultural understanding and international collaboration. Universities must adapt to these changes by promoting the benefits of language learning and integrating it with other disciplines.

For more detailed statistics and information, you can refer to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) website and government education resources here: Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) - Modern Language Statistics